Future developments will need to incorporate the needs of pedestrians and cyclists. (Photo: URA)
Property developers will soon be required to submit a detailed Walking and Cycling Plan (WCP) for their future developments to meet the needs of pedestrians and cyclists, according to a joint statement by the Land Transport Authority (LTA) and Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) on Tuesday, 3 May.
The WCP will take effect from July this year, and is part of the government’s efforts to implement its Walk Cycle SG vision of making walking, cycling, and taking public transport a way of life here.
As part of the WCP, developers will have to plan for the safety, convenience and accessibility of pedestrians and cyclists in the development design.
For instance, walking and cycling routes from key transport nodes and surrounding areas will need to be reviewed carefully, with provisions for covered walkways or linkways, and safe pedestrian and cyclist crossings.
Facilities such as bicycle parking, shower rooms and lockers must also be factored into the plan.
“We can do more to improve safety and connectivity for pedestrians and cyclists in our built environment. Often, we see pedestrians and cyclists having to negotiate traffic across driveways, or service roads before they can enter the developments,” said Chew Men Leong, LTA’s Head.
“There is also room to improve supporting facilities such as bicycle parking and a good signage system, as these facilities can also play an important part in creating a seamless experience for pedestrians and cyclists.”
The plan will be rolled out first in commercial developments, such as shopping complexes, offices, business parks and schools, where high pedestrian and cyclist traffic is expected.
Romesh Navaratnarajah, Senior Editor at PropertyGuru, wrote this story. To contact him about this or other stories, email romesh@propertyguru.com.sg
